Nigeria to Host ECOWAS Stakeholders to Tackle Agricultural Security Challenges
Nigeria is poised to welcome key stakeholders from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to address pressing security issues impacting farming and agricultural productivity across the region. This announcement was made by officials during discussions surrounding the upcoming ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival.
The festival is slated to occur in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, from October 6 to 11, 2024. It aims to gather essential players from the food security and safety sectors to devise actionable solutions to the challenges that hinder agricultural success in Nigeria and neighboring West African nations.
As the host, Nigeria stands to gain substantially in various areas, including tourism, sustainable development, cultural integration, poverty alleviation, and creating employment opportunities for youth and women in agriculture.
The festival’s objectives extend to advocating for robust government policies and commitments from ECOWAS nations. Engaging multiple sectors of the economy is crucial to addressing issues like insecurity, hunger, and violence against farmers who need a secure environment to cultivate crops.
Once security improves, farmers will be able to operate freely, which is essential for ensuring the timely and successful harvest of crops, thus boosting food availability and affordability.
Officials anticipate welcoming delegates from 16 ECOWAS member states, along with international representatives, heads of state, and government officials to participate in this significant festival. Plans include a golf tournament, a train carnival, and the Miss ECOWAS Beauty Pageant, showcasing the cultural diversity of the region and offering a range of culinary experiences for attendees.
The festival’s theme, “Celebrating African Cultural Heritage for Peace and Development,” underscores the notion that societal progress cannot flourish amid conflict. Support from governmental bodies further emphasizes the importance of this initiative in promoting peace and development in Nigeria, aligning with the national development agenda.
The festival promises to be a landmark event, fostering cooperation and unity among ECOWAS nations while addressing critical agricultural challenges in the region.
